Hiking Mount Cabot

Profile
Mt. Cabot (4,170 ft.) is the highest peak in New Hampshire’s North Country, offering interesting views from the site of a former fire tower, just southeast of the summit.

Suggested RoutesModerate-Strenuous: The route to Cabot’s summit provides several opportunities to take in magnificent scenery. Cabot is best approached via the York Pond, Bunnell Notch & Kilkenny Ridge Trails since the Mt. Cabot Trail is currently closed.

Trip PlanningThe WMNF’s Cabot Firewarden’s Cabin is located just south of Mt. Cabot’s summit, with bunks for 8 people.

Safety in Summer and early Fall
The AMC recommends all hikers check weather conditions in advance, carry a current map and guidebook, along with a compass and knowledge of how to use it. For recommendations on how to plan a safe hike in the White Mountains, see: The 10 essentials for a safe and pleasant hike.

Winter Hiking on Mt. CabotWinter hiking anywhere in the White Mountains requires specialized equipment and skills, and experience in coping with weather, navigation, and winter gear. Extremely severe storms can develop suddenly and unexpectedly, especially above treeline. The combination of high wind and low temperatures has such a cooling effect that the worst conditions on Mt. Cabot are approximately equal to the worst reported from Antarctica, despite the much greater cold in the latter region. Hikers interested in extending their activities into winter are strongly advised to seek out organized trips with leaders who have extensive winter experience. Several AMC chapters offer winter hiking and backpacking instruction, and AMC offers several guided winter mountaineering trips; search for "Instruction" in AMC's activity listings. Helpful information can also be found in the AMC Guide to Winter Hiking and Camping.